Today is a momentous day for me. September 1, 1982 was the first time that Sewing With Nancy aired on TV.

On the actual anniversary of the first airing of the show, I think back to how things have changed and also, how they’ve stayed the same! Technology changes in all areas of our life, including sewing and quilting, are a given. What’s stayed the same? Our penchant for creating gifts of fabric and thread.

We grouped the gifts into categories: gifts for kids, travelers, fellow sewists and quilters, cooking enthusiasts, and bookworms. Many of the projects you’ve seen over the past 30 years, yet I’d venture to say that there are a few new options for you!

Highlights of some of the gifts to sew

For kiddos, try the Portable Chalkboard gift.

For a quilting or sewing friend, create the Folded Heart Needle Case. This is a replica of my Grandmother’s needle case. My fabric choice was one of the new laminates instead of the velvet option from grandma.

A photo or scrapbook album cover is always a welcome gift. Use quilted fabric or if time permits, quilt your own fabric.

A hostess/host gift of wine or a flavored vinegar is always welcome, especially if they arrive in a cheery fabric bag.

For your sewing and quilting friends, make a notions organizer. Great for traveling to sewing retreats.

Here’s a listing of all 30 gifts to sew:

Notions Organizer

Sit ’n Sew Caddy

Pressed for Time Pressing Mat

Folded Heart Needle Case

Zip-Up Cosmetic Bag

Jewelry Hang-up

Fold ’n Go Garment Bag

Curling Iron Caddy

Workout Towel

20-Minute Shower Wrap

Photo Album

The Ultimate Book Cover

Checkbook or Date Book Cover

Crib Sheets

Satin-Edge Blanket

Baby Bath Wrap

Heirloom Bonnet

Portable Chalkboard

Barbeque Apron

Casserole Travel Pocket

Child’s Half Apron

Can Cooler

Wine Tote

Lunch on the Go Bag

Lined Gift Sacks

Fleece/Flannel Throw

Speedy Trimmed Pillowcase

Self-Tying Scarf

60-Minute Tree Skirt

Rolled Edge Napkins

What’s your favorite Sewing With Nancy memory, sew/quilt tips, or sewing project? A random winner will be announced September 8th. The prize, you guessed it, Nancy’s 30 Favorite Gifts To Sew Book.

Thanks Nancy for 30 years of showing us that you want to share so many wonderful things that make sewing a passion for all of us who do love to create. With all your tips, books, shows etc you have helped teach us what being creative is all about and I have found there are not enough hours in a day to get all all the projects done that I want to…….but I am still trying!!!!!

Sheriann DSeptember 6, 2012

I simply adore Nancy!! Everything that Nancy demonstrates always makes the technique look like I can do it. I have enjoyed watching Sewing With Nancy almost from the beginning of her TV career. My favorite technique is Pattern Fitting! I now know how to adjust my patterns to create clothing that fits me properly. It made so much sense and is sew very easy!
Thank you Nancy!!

RebeccaSeptember 6, 2012

I am still a newbie. I love the books I have of yours! I look forward to my next sewing project!

I love to watch sewing with Nancy shows. It is on our local PBS channel during the day so I try to remember to tape it and watch it after work. There are so many tips that I refer back to. Where has the years gone by and look how far sewing has come-more technology and more professional results. WOW!

Lori GinsbergSeptember 4, 2012

I love all of Nancy’s shows where she gives out her wonderful tips. I have learned so much. The book sounds wonderful and it will definitely be going on my wish list. I make gifts for my family and friends all throughout the year and this would be wonderful.

Rita DoughertySeptember 4, 2012

Years ago I would tape the earlier shows that were televised in the afternoon on PBS. I had TV set for auto tape. First thing I did was watch it when I got home from work. I would be so upset to find out on those occ. when PBS would be doing their promotional / subscriber programs. When I think back, how upset I would be. omg The kids bought me early booklets that were called Transcripts at that time and done on paper with limited 1 color besides the black print. Nancy has always been my mentor. Thank you Nancy

Frances CSeptember 4, 2012

I have enjoyed many of the shows but my favorites were the quilting shows. I have tried many of the tips also.

Sharon CarbineSeptember 4, 2012

Congratulations for 30 years of history-making, sewing-related success, Nancy. Wishing you much continued success and happiness. You reignited my childhood interest in sewing. Thank you!!!

KathySeptember 4, 2012

I have enjoyed anything you have done to do with quilting – especially the column quilt. I am working on one now. And this new book of 30 projects – well I love the notions organizer. It has been impossible to find something to keep my quilting notions organized but secure for travel to classes. I can’t wait to make this.

Susan BurnsSeptember 3, 2012

My current favorites to make and video to watch are the purses you make in the emboidery hoop. You and Eillen Roche did a great job with them. They are easy to make and make great gifts.

Shelley PetersonSeptember 3, 2012

I couldn’t begin to choose a favorite memory. I have learned so much from you and your guests over the years. I love the show and it is set to automatically record every episode.

Donnie KirbySeptember 3, 2012

My favorite Sewing With Nancy TV show was with Patti Palmer and gave instructions for sewing jackets. I’ve watched it on line many times.

Donnie KirbySeptember 3, 2012

My favorite Sewing With Nancy TV show was with Patti Palmer and gave instructions on making jackets. I’ve watched it many times on line.

MargieSeptember 3, 2012

My favorite was the Column Quilt, I saw and and decided to make it for my niece who was having her first child. I made it in the bright primary colors. Since the back is the opposite of the front it is a very nice. I also loved the tip of using fleece for the batting.

Duane WileySeptember 2, 2012

Can’t give a favorite because they all are so good. I love all the things Nancy has had to offer over the years! She is an ICON! Thank you for doing what you do and I am sure we all hope you have many more years on TV! Thanks for the opportunity to win your book!

LindaSeptember 2, 2012

Wow! 30 years – that’s great! And I have been with you all the way! How come I’ve aged and you haven’t? The greatest thing about your show is the inspiration you have given to all of us, especially when we get into a rut and run out of new ideas. There are days when I think you and Mary Mulari are my best friends; I spend more time with you two ladies than I do with any one else. Please keep up the good work, keep motivating us “old” sewers and encouraging the new ones.

Pamela BeethSeptember 2, 2012

I’d have to say that my favorite shows are 90% of the shows from the last 30 years! I taped them all and bought many books. Currently, I have a new granddaughter so my latest favorite is 30 Minute Doll Clothes.

Ginni HollandSeptember 2, 2012

I enjoying watching your show! Now instead of recording on a VCR tape its recorded to a HDR. . I would have to say I learn a little something new on each show I watch. Whether its making something new or a great tip! Thank you so much for your dedication and congratulations!

Brenda HowardSeptember 2, 2012

My favorite memory is remembering my mom watch your show and spending time with her before we would head to the fabric store with her head full of great ideas and inspiration. Now all these years later I am finally a sewist and newly addicted to your show and excited to learn more and more. To bad it took me so many years to decide that I loved the sewing that I grew up around. I was excited to meet you last year at Houston Quilt Festival and hope to see you again this year and get a picture with you. Thanks for the inspiration and many more happy years of watch you to come.

PS. Sept 1 is my birthday (53) so you picked a good day to have for your anniversary.

Mike PortuesiSeptember 2, 2012

I’m a new sewist who considers myself fortunate to have seen “Sewing A to Z” as my first Sewing With Nancy epsiode. I purchased the book and DVD, and I refer to them on every sewing project. It answered questions about basic stuff like pinning and cutting patterns, but it also covers lots more. My favorite tips from the book are sewing with knits, and how to use the seam ripper!

Barbara PalmatierSeptember 1, 2012

I too liked the Christmas tree napkins and the the column quilt assembly blows me away. Being a qulter it is just so easy. I was going to make some of the Christmas tree napkins last year for Christmas. Quick and easy. But suggested it to my daughter…she does not have a serger, but I said she could could zig zag them along the edge for inexpensive gifts. She did not do it, so this year I am getting my serger out! They are so simple and pretty. There are just so many great ideas and possible gifts..I could go on for ever. I like the idea of not sewing the bottom of aprons that are double sided that Mary has developed too. Just having them reversable is great as well. The list just goes on and on.
Thank you Nancy for the past 30 years of great ideas and why didn’t I think of that moments?! I know you deserve a long vacation…but I am hoping , if you do you will bring back some great ideas from where ever you go. Also the inventions you have come up with…somebody stop me !! The list has no end to it. So glad you have been there all these years. Good luck in the future.

JaneSeptember 1, 2012

Love all your shows and insist on family taping when I am unable to be home to watch. You continually give us the inspiration to improve our sewing skills and creativity. Thank you!!!!

Janice KingSeptember 1, 2012

Memories?….There are so many…My favorite memories of your show is: each Saturday morning, with my cup of coffee, enjoying some “me” time. The kids knew it was “Mom’s TV show”, so don’t bother her!! So many inspirations and now, to the web to review each project. Thank you for being a part of my sewing life, Nancy! And congratulations and many more years to come!

Robin ClevelandSeptember 1, 2012

I love all the tips you give on your show! Sewing with Nancy is THE best sewing show on TV and has been for many years (30 to be exact!). My favorite shows are the art quilts and quilted-type wall hangings. There is so much creativity involved! Thank you Nancy and staff for bringing this wonderful creativity into our homes!

Joyce ComfortSeptember 1, 2012

Though I have been sewing for years, I always learn something from Nancy! My most used and favorite tip thus far is her tutorial on how to complete a quilt binding with a mitered seam using the width of the binding as a cutting guide. Amazing how it works every time!

joyce wallaceSeptember 1, 2012

wrapped corners, wrapped corners, and wrapped corners. congrags on 30 years. p s i used to tape you on beta.

I have watched your show for a long time and have enjoyed your many hints, tips and sewing projects! I love learning how to make a pattern from a favorite piece of clothing and I especially like making doll clothes. I get your books from the library often, too. Thank you for 30 years of helping to make us all better sewers. Congrats on your many accomplishments!

ZAIDA JACKSONSeptember 1, 2012

I use so many of your techniques and even though I have been sewing for years and years, I always learn new things. I love the shows on quick projects and gifts because I always try to make the gifts that I give. That is not always easy to do since I still work as well, so 10-20-30 Minutes to Sew is a real life saver for me.

PeggySeptember 1, 2012

Being a quilter I love ‘The Art of Landscape’ and ‘Trees & Flowers Landscape Quilts’. Rambling Roses table runner also comes to mind. What a great book to win for holiday gift giving just around the corner!

JoyceSeptember 1, 2012

Thanks Nancy, for giving so much help for every level of
sewing. I have never had a lesson, so I really appreciate tips
for making things that are simple. You give me the encouragement to try things that are new. After watching your show, I can hardly wait to try a new project. We are still in reruns of your show, so I am waiting patiently for
the new season. Congratulation on 30 years.

Marsha NelsonSeptember 1, 2012

I have had so many aha moments watching you teach techniques over the years. It seems when I have been struggling with something or not been happy with results, there it is on Sewing with Nancy. I appreciate you so much.

Diane StumpSeptember 1, 2012

My favorite sewing tip was how to make a perfect dart. I learned to sew garments many years ago by renting your videos and watching the shows on tv. Early purchases included the Sewing with Nancy binders that contained multi program booklets. I still have them!

ellenSeptember 1, 2012

I’ve watched pretty much all of ‘Sewing with Nancy’ on tv. I’ve learned so much from your tips to become a better sewist. I remember Mary Mulari when she first came on your show and how shy she was. Like Mary, I’ve come a long ways, thanks to you.

Colette W.September 1, 2012

I can’t pick just one. What I love best about Nancy is her constant inspiration… when I think I can’t find anything new or exciting she presents it to me!

CeciliaSeptember 1, 2012

I’m afraid that I have not seen any of your shows. When I started quilting 4 years ago, I looked for sewing shows on in my area, but there weren’t any being aired. I do have internet, but with a limited data usage, I am not able to watch your shows on the internet either. I do enjoy reading your blog and seeing all of the neat tips you show us.

Vicki RiceSeptember 1, 2012

I have always appreciated your way of making sewing techniques seem like something I could do too. My favorite technique is your fitting patterns. It gave me a starting point to getting the things I sewed on my person instead of the scrap bag. Thank you.

Lydia MartinSeptember 1, 2012

Congratulations! My favorite sewing programs were when you introduced the serger and showed what steps it took to do something with a regular sewing machine and then what to do with a serger – I was hooked. I didn’t hear about serging anywhere else before.

Mary L CooperSeptember 1, 2012

Nancy….Congratulations for 30 years of excellent programming. It is my 80th birthday today, 9/1, so I celebrate with you. I have been watching your programs for probably all your 30 years. I still find sewing my favorite occupation along with crocheting. I make most of my families birthday and holiday gifts and constantly refer to your books and tapes in my collection. Thank you for being a good friend for the past 30 years. Mary Cooper

Barbara CSeptember 1, 2012

I love the show when you showed how to sew the seam in the collar by folding and stiching it to reduce bulk at the seam. Also love the tip on putting binding on a quilt and making the corners neat. THANK you Nancy for years of sewing hints!

Sally RichardsSeptember 1, 2012

I love the Christmas Tree Napkins made to look like a Christmas Tree on your dinner plate for the holidays. So easy and fun to make that I made 12 of them so each person has one. I had enough material left over to make 2 matching bun warmers for baskets to keep bread warm on the table. Thank you Nancy and your crew for all the hard work to teach us all you know. We love you like your our mom!

Linda DavisSeptember 1, 2012

I just discovered the website videos since the show is not on my area. I enjoyed the fleece series and some of the quilting ideas. Even if I don’t make anything from the show I always take away a good sewing tip.

Vicki D.September 1, 2012

I’ve only gotten Sewing With Nancy in my area recently, but in a short amount of time I’ve learned so much. My favorite so far is the serger workshop series. I live in an area where there are no local dealers, so lessons on a serger do not exist. I am so grateful for all of the tips and information that you provide in all areas of sewing. Thanks for doing what you do!

Rosalind BerthelotSeptember 1, 2012

It is so difficult to pick one favorite tip but the scarf series and the the purse series sparked my interest in sewing again. Thanks for 30 years of great programs.

Pat SSeptember 1, 2012

I thoroughly enjoy the landscape series, so beautiful and so inspirational.

Libby Mahaffey-HaytasSeptember 1, 2012

Congrats, after 30 years it is hard to pin just one show down…since I began quilting some 20 years ago, I would have to say your quilting shows and how you have simplified them oover the years. I just got your muti sized “Grandmothers One Patch and Tumbler Block” w/DVD and am anxious to try this newest version, nnother time saver. Thank you for all your inovations and creative ways to turn an old block into a new easier way of doing them.

KathSeptember 1, 2012

The “TIPS” portion of your show has always held fond memories. It contains tiny morsels of sewing knowledge that has helped me through the years.

Rebecca CochranSeptember 1, 2012

I have watched since I started sewing (around the same time you began the show) I have learned so much but I think my favorite was the learning how to copy your favorite garment an I loved the sewing tips at the end of the shows.

I am excited about these gifts. It has been a while since I had the time to actually make gifts for the family at Christmas. Your book is most timely.

Elizabeth DupeeSeptember 1, 2012

congratulations on 30 years!! what an accomplishment! My earliest memories of your show are of you showing how to chose fabrics and correct needles to use for each project. I often recorded your shows on V H S tapes (which I still have) to watch over and over.

thanks Nancy

vickie bloseSeptember 1, 2012

I watched the program on Saturdays and on Wednesday on my local PBS station when I lived in Erie. My tip is Mr. Clean Magic Eraser—they clean up an iron and leave no residue.

MarthaSeptember 1, 2012

I really liked the Sweatshirt Makeover with Mary Mulari.

Merri LynnSeptember 1, 2012

I can’t think of one memory that is my favorite. I have learned so much watching your show and still eagerly look forward to watching it every Sunday. I have found my likes have canged through the years, and now it seems I am especially drawn to any quilting project. Keep up the great work.

I’ve watched for years. I’ve learned so much. Your tip to clip the notches on patterns instead of cutting around them sure made cutting out patterns easier. You put the joy into sewing.

DellSeptember 1, 2012

Love all of Nancy’s serger tips.

Jan SSeptember 1, 2012

I am new to the site, but really liked your scarves series and the quilt binding show. This new book looks like it has some great gift ideas in it!

Debi FlessertSeptember 1, 2012

I always enjoy the landscape quilting series. All the little tips you offer during the shows are helpful too! Congrats on 30 years!

Ginger KomiskeySeptember 1, 2012

Nancy, I have watched your show for many years and gotten a boatload of tips and techniques. I can’t pick a favorite but I’ve signed up to see you at the quilt expo in Madison and pick up a few more ideas.

Sheila PerlSeptember 1, 2012

I love all your shows!! Every time I think, I wonder how you do that technique? You are doing a show on it!! You are really on top of the sewing/quilting world!
One of my favourite books is your 10-20-30 minutes to sew, I still use your techniques of breaking down the project into easily handled time chunks
Thank you, Nancy, you are a wonderful sewing teacher!

MarySeptember 1, 2012

Where should I begin, time and space would not allow me to tell all that was learned over the years since watching Sewing with Nancy. A good way to start is to go back to all the books and videos and DVD’s. Thanks for letting us into your studio each week to learn so many wonderful sewing tips.

KaySeptember 1, 2012

I could hardly narrow it down to one since I’ve learned so much from Nancy, but I guess my top two are Pattern Fitting with Confidence and all the handbag presentations. Wow. Thanks, Nancy!!

TinaSeptember 1, 2012

It’s hard to pick just one, but I learned so much I did not know about elastics on that episode!! I honestly love all the shows.

JaneSeptember 1, 2012

I’ve enjoyed watching your shows. Also have visited your store in Bever Dam. My current sewing is for my granddaughter and her dolls.

I enjoyed all of your shows that I was able to watch. I would love to win this terrific book. It looks great!
I think I’d like to make the accessories organizer. Oooh I need one so bad.

Thanks for all you do and share with us.

Debbie

Marianne GadebergSeptember 1, 2012

I have been sewing for 45 years but only found your web-site about 6 years ago and then your TV shows. They have been a real eye openers to me and I have “mended” my sewing ways in so many areas. Thank you for dragging me into the 21st sewing century. My 2 favourites are the “Pattern Fitting with Confidence” and “Sewing A to Z”; they are like first-aid manuals for sewers. Thank you for all your hard work that you make look so easy!

Peggy FordSeptember 1, 2012

I always enjoy watching Nancy and I have picked up some very helpful hints! She is so easy to learn from and is always eager to share what she knows! Thanks Nancy, for all that you have given to the rest of the quilting world!

nangySeptember 1, 2012

I had’nt sewn in about 25 years and my 6 year old grandaughter was so curious about my sewing machine.I tuned it up and found the Sewing with Nancy series and she has been learning to make the doll clothes,doll quilts and now that she is 11 she loves the purse and bag series.The shows are wonderful and I dont miss a single one and even watch the re-runs! Thank-You so much for all the hard work that you have done all these years.

I have learned so many really handy and useful tips from your sewing episodes! My fav would be the instructions on making crib sheets. I have four grandchildren and have made sheets for three of them.
Thank you for all your inspiration……

Cathy HallSeptember 1, 2012

I have watched Sewing with Nancy from the beginning. I almost feel as if I am in the studio with you. I appreciate your enthusiasm and certainly inspiration(s) to us all. I now enjoy the streaming of your programs. I can even read your books while watching! THANK YOU, Nancy Zieman!

Linda NelsonSeptember 1, 2012

I love the cute apron you’ve made, and I also still use the gathering with zig zag technique. Big time saver!

Nancy NSeptember 1, 2012

Using a fat dowel to iron fat seams is my favorite tip but there are so many others that are worthy. Thanks for the lasting bank of tips.

candySeptember 1, 2012

I loved the landscape quilt series and have the DVD

Kathy KauthSeptember 1, 2012

My favorite show would be hard to pick, they all are so nice but I guess the landscape quilts, I used to use VHS tapes to tape your program so I could watch them when I was not working, I saved them and referred back to them a lot. Thank you Nancy

Cecelia SlosserSeptember 1, 2012

I was married in June of 1982, and I remember watching some of your first shows, I believe they were on making wedding dresses. If I had only waited a few more months to get married I could have made my own wedding dress. I have enjoyed your show over the years and your teaching style. My children even knew, whatever I was doing on Wednesday @ 2 pm stopped so I could watch Sewing with Nancy. Congratulations on 30 years.

Wanda PaluchSeptember 1, 2012

After all these years I still use Mary Mulari’s Travel Gear and Gifts To Make. She is still fun to watch on TV or live in person. Thanks for introducing us to so many great sewing people! Special thanks for Sewing Weekend ’cause it’s so much fun!